Goal for Dodgers Football is Clear: Win a State Title

Just about 10 months ago, the Madison Dodgers football team was preparing for a North 2, Group II state semifinal game against an exceptionally powerful Summit squad.

While the outcome (a 23-14 loss) wasn't exactly what the Dodgers were hoping for, it gave them proof that they were up to the task of playing with the best teams in the state.

This year, the 2010 grid contingent is set for revenge, as each and every member of the Dodgers squad expects nothing short of a state title.

"We have high goals and hopefully, next time, we'll be able to take care of business," head coach Chris Kubik said before practice last week. "We knew Summit was going to be real good, but this team doesn't back down to anyone."

It's clear that the team has taken on the hard-nosed personality of its head coach, something that allows it to head into every game with the utmost confidence.

"This year we're looking to win that state championship game," senior captain and wide receiver Aaron Fant said. "It's nice to make the playoffs, but you always want to win that state championship game."

After losing key members from the 2009 season, including linebacker/tight end Will McDonald, linebacker/running back Christian Mazzocchi, and offensive/defensive lineman Klemberth Calderon, other Dodgers will be forced to step up and produce right off the bat.

"We're hoping guys like Justin Goodwin, Colin McLinden and Spencer Waresk can step up," Kubik explained. "A lot of these guys are back from last year, so that helps us."

But with impact players leaving, and others stepping into their roles, the Dodgers can rest easy with continuity at the quarterback position.

Senior Matt McHale, No. 1 on the depth chart since the end of his sophomore year, has the respect of his coaches and teammates, a sense of what he needs to do to succeed–and he's not lacking confidence.

"I feel like I've grown up a lot (from last season)," he explained. "I really just want to limit interceptions and make good decisions. I think we're going to win a state championship this year."

In order for Madison to have a chance at that state championship that everyone is buzzing about–and to make its quarterback's life a whole lot easier–the offensive line, led by seniors Mike Boardman and Matt Spelker, will have to do everything it can to protect McHale and open holes for the running game.

"The line is much improved over the last few years," Kubik said. "The kids have always played hard (in the past), it's just that these guys are a lunch-pail group that just works real hard, they're very aggressive, and they've learned the scheme real fast."  

McHale agrees with his coach's assessment and believes the offense looks strong heading into the season.

"Our offensive line is looking really good, and very strong this year and our backs and receivers are experienced. We're going to have a good season," he said.

Another strength of the team is its even-front defense, a group led by linebackers Mike Staneart and Waresk.

"We were right there last year and we just need to work that much harder to succeed," Staneart said. "We've got a lot of good seniors and a lot of young kids stepping up, so it's going to be a combined effort."  

"Our defense is always fast and physical, that's what we do," Kubik said. "We can play well against anyone."

Madison will begin its 2010 state championship quest at home against Wallkill Valley on Saturday at 1 p.m.

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